Head Coach Paul Hunt
The 2026–27 season marks Paul Hunt’s 10th season at the helm of the Benedictine College softball program. Over his distinguished nine-year tenure, Hunt has transformed the Ravens into a regional powerhouse and a frequent national contender, compiling a stellar 262-188 overall record.
National Prominence & Historic Milestones
Under Hunt’s leadership, the Ravens have reached unprecedented heights, highlighted by two historic trips to the NAIA National Tournament Opening Round:
- 2024 Historic Breakthrough: Hunt guided the Ravens to a milestone season, setting a program record with a spectacular 40-16 overall record. The squad finished third in the Heart of America Athletic Conference, claimed the Conference Tournament Runner-Up title, cracked the national rankings at No. 20, and secured the first NAIA National Tournament appearance and victory in program history.
- 2026 Return to the National Stage: The Ravens returned to the National Tournament Opening Round for the second time in three years, finishing with a dominant 34-20 record (19-9 in Heart play) and placing six players on the All-Conference team.
Prior to these national runs, Hunt’s 2021 squad shattered records with 34 victories and finished No. 1 in the NAIA in team doubles (112), which was a fantastic follow-up to their 2019 campaign where they ranked No. 3 nationally with 113 doubles.
Elite Player Development
An exceptional evaluator and mentor, Hunt has developed top-tier talent on the diamond, producing:
- 3 NAIA All-Americans
- 36 Heart of America All-Conference selections
- 2 Major Conference Award Winners (1 Pitcher of the Year, 1 Newcomer of the Year)
- 5 Gold Glove Winners
Executive Leadership & Professional Service
Highly respected by his peers across the country, Hunt has played an instrumental role in the governance and growth of collegiate softball. An active National Fastpitch Coaches Association (NFCA) member since 2017, he has served as the official Heart of America Conference Rater since 2021.
Furthermore, he has dedicated years of executive service to the NAIA Softball Coaches Association Executive Committee, moving through a succession of leadership ranks:
- Past President: 2024–25 Season
- President: 2023–24 Season
- Vice President: 2022–23 Season
- 2nd Vice President: 2021–22 Season
- Secretary: 2019–21 Seasons
Prior Coaching & Administrative Experience
Hunt arrived at Benedictine following a successful three-year stint at Iowa Central Community College in Fort Dodge, Iowa. Serving simultaneously as Assistant Softball Coach and Assistant Athletic Director, he helped guide the Tritons to an impressive 121-62 record.
Before transitioning to the collegiate ranks, Hunt spent four seasons leading the softball program at Saint Edmond High School in Fort Dodge. There, he captured multiple conference titles, earned two Coach of the Year honors, and directed the program to two Iowa State Tournament appearances, finishing as high as third place.
Background & Personal Life
A former collegiate athlete, Hunt played baseball at Dana College in 2005 before wrapping up his playing career in 2009 at Presentation College, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Communications and Business.
Paul and his wife, Kasey, reside in Atchison with their five children: Hallie, Anna, Henry, Gloria, and Natalie.
